I have to agree, after minimum wage, Austin has been mostly ineffective. I see his recent proposals as the last actions of lame duck radical, none of these items have any real chance of passing, sick leave was a bigger defeat for him then it appeared at the time.

I suspect Austin King will understand that this goodbye kiss from the WSJ is really a compliment of a very high order. Austin clearly has been one of the most effective progressives to sit on the city council in many, many years. Those who would like to see progress rolled back are of course happy to see him leave.

I would like to note that Austin did not focus on a few niche issues that make some progressives myopic. Instead, Austin put his heart and energy into issues that affected the working poor. Increasing the minimum wage is just one example.

It is no wonder that Austin gets reactionary forces so bent out of shape. He first confounded them and then he beat them.

I think Madison can be proud that it was not blinded by Austin's youth and instead recognized his great skills. Austin became a force in Madison because of meritocracy winning out.

Finally, for those who might find solace in saying that "Austin King really did not matter anyways" at least appreciate his tenaciousness in getting justice for "Patty." Austin's desire to have Madison make amends for the mistakes described in Bill Luders' book made a difference in that individual's life. But, in some ways, and maybe more importantly, it humanized Madison. It was good for Madison to say we made a mistake and we are going to do what decent people do and make amends. Austin understood that and made a difference.

Many people will hate to see the day when Austin King leaves Madison. I will be one of them.

Daisy wrote:It speaks well of Austin's relevance to local government that supporters and detractors alike are taking note of his departure.

You mean like when you "take note" of that 2 inch zit finally vanishing from your forehead? Many of us hope his departure will lessen the constant stream of mandates in areas that don't need city government's "help." That hope and not any praise for the opinionated little master of hyperboleÃ¢??s agenda cause me to take note and say, "can I help you pack?"